Nigerians have been enjoined not to politicise the spiritual dimension initiated by the National Prayer Forum to attract God’s intervention in the national challenge.
In a statement made available to the media, the group, signed by the Director General, National Prayer Team, Chief Segun Balogun Afolorunikan, said it has become necessary to clear the air over the role of government in the initiative designed to boost peaceful coexistence amidst the difficulty.
The forum maintained that her purpose is purely patriotic and should not be mistaken for political gain.
It reads in part: “Recent statements questioning the intention behind the seven-day national prayer initiative, the Concerned Religious Prayer Forum wishes to clarify our patriotic purpose and the motivations underpinning this effort.
“As an independent, non-governmental organisation registered on January 9, 2024, our Forum consists of individuals united solely by a shared commitment to Nigeria’s welfare.
“The government neither endorses nor directs our activities, and we maintain an independent stance, driven by concern for the nation’s peace, unity, and prosperity.
“We find it disheartening that some, rather than appreciating the prayer effort, have chosen to politicise it.
It said that “in both the Bible and the Quran, there is ample guidance on the efficacy of prayer in times of challenge. The Bible in 2 Chronicles 7:14 states, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
Balogun said, “Similarly, the Quran (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:186) underscores, “And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon me.” These verses show that prayer serves as a divine support that, when combined with sincere efforts, strengthens a nation’s resolve and direction.
“The choice to ask Her Excellency, the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to lead this initiative was made with deep respect for their standing as respected figures in the country.
“While they were not consulted, we believed their involvement could inspire wider national engagement. We do not expect or require political endorsement; rather, our prayer call is an expression of faith and collective hope for Nigeria’s healing and progress.
“In response to critics, particularly those who question the validity of prayer in these challenging times, we emphasise that divine intervention has always complemented diligent, hands-on efforts.
“This is neither a replacement for hard work nor a dismissal of economic solutions but a humble recognition that, alongside our efforts, we seek divine guidance and unity.
“While it is the government’s business to engage qualified persons and task them on areas of national need for growth, it is our responsibility as citizens to provide our areas of competence to national challenge; in this case, the spiritual dimension to which we all agree is pivotal to our daily lives.
“We urge leaders and citizens alike to see this initiative as an invitation to rally together and set aside divisions for the greater good.
“Nigeria’s journey to peace and prosperity requires not only active policymaking but also the heartfelt support of its people, including their prayers. May we all work diligently and pray earnestly for a better Nigeria,” it stated.
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